As June unfolds, Indie Agency News members are demonstrating what happens when agencies move beyond performative Pride to create campaigns that matter. From Campfire‘s 16-hour legislative testimony marathon to Public Inc.‘s celebration of brands that treat Pride as protest rather than product placement, indies are showing the holding companies what authentic support looks like.
🏳️🌈 The Protest Continues
Indies showing up in legislative chambers and liberation movements
Campfire isn’t posting rainbow logos – their Director of Impact spent 16 hours at the Maine State House testifying against eight harmful anti-trans bills. Meanwhile, their podcast explores “Igniting Pride: Unleashing Hope in a Changing World” because apparently they believe in backing activism with action.
Public Inc. keeps reminding everyone that Pride began as a rebellion and remains a movement for liberation, with VP of Creative Impact Paul Rivait breaking down why allyship isn’t a trend.
🎨 Creative That Creates Change
When campaigns do more than just check boxes
GLOW Creative Agency‘s Head of Strategy Maggie Walsh contributed to Ad Age’s Pride series with an essay about brands putting their capital and influence where their rainbow flags are.
Lupine Creative took home a Bronze Shorty for LGBTQ Community Engagement for their work on Max Presents: Black vs. Green featuring Sesali Bowen, proving that authentic storytelling beats corporate virtue signaling.
Barrett Hofherr partnered with True Colors United to create a bold brand identity for True Colors Week, amplifying voices of young people experiencing homelessness.
🏆 Recognition for Real Work
Awards that celebrate substance over surface
The Gerety Awards highlighted Publicis Groupe Czech Republic’s Unfit Ring campaign for Prague Pride, securing three shortlists for the innovative activism piece.
Serviceplan Group swept up at the Clio Awards while featuring LGBTQ+ inclusive work in their Cannes contenders showcase, proving excellence and inclusion go hand in hand.
💰 Putting Money Where Their Mouths Are
Indies investing in communities, not just campaigns
Fortnight Collective is proudly supporting OutCare Health’s mission to make healthcare more inclusive, because access to affirming healthcare shouldn’t be revolutionary.
Revery participated in the “Champions of Self Expression” multi-city tour, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices across the country and celebrating authentic identity.
Public Inc. celebrated Toronto Blue Jays and TD for continuing their allyship beyond June, noting “There’s no playing here!” when it comes to genuine support.
🎉 Culture Shifts and Celebrations
From corporate panels to community engagement
Terri & Sandy wrapped their year-long “Positively Pride” series, providing monthly doses of queer news and culture that kept the conversation going all year.
Crackerjack Communications committed to “showing up, speaking out, and standing alongside” their LGBTQ+ colleagues and communities with visible support throughout Pride month.
Portland State University – School of Business featured Fulbright Scholar James Pérez presenting research on equality and business innovation, bridging academic insights with real-world impact.
🚀 Beyond the Rainbow Washing
When agencies remember Pride happens after June too
Hydrogen Advertising acknowledged that in today’s climate, the fight for equality is more vital than ever, linking Pride to broader reproductive rights movements.
PB& reminisced about their #wesealove campaign, created to counter online hate with positivity and love during times of increased discrimination.
Storythings released their B Corp Annual Impact Report highlighting how equality and inclusion drive their business model year-round, not just in June.
🎭 The Unexpected and Delightful
Because Pride should include joy alongside the justice
FUSE Create sweetened Pride with Gay Lea Foods campaigns featuring stop motion and whipped cream (the dairy company, not the orientation).
Public Inc. praised Diesel and Tom of Finland Foundation’s four-year legacy of “Grindr castings, steamy shots, and funds for erotic art” – because apparently someone needs to celebrate the spicy side of Pride.
Lupine Creative‘s founder Kate Wolff reminded everyone that when your work works, it can win awards and change hearts at the same time.
Ready to join agencies that walk the walk? Become an Indie Agency News member at indieagency.news/join
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